What is Whalesafe Gear?

Traditional trap and pot fishing gear includes a surface buoy with a vertical line connected to fishing gear that sits on the seafloor. The line may connect to a single trap or a string of traps. Whales can get entangled in this gear when fishing occurs in their habitat.

Whalesafe fishing gear is designed to prevent whale entanglements or to reduce their severity. There are three main types:

On-demand gear

On-demand gear is deployed without vertical lines. When the harvester is ready to retrieve their gear, they send a signal from a device on their fishing vessel to a receiver attached to the gear on the seafloor. This triggers the gear to rise to the surface so the catch can be hauled aboard.

Lower breaking-strength gear

Lower breaking-strength gear includes a vertical line with a surface buoy. It is designed to operate under normal fishing conditions, but breaks apart when a certain amount of force (usually 1,700 pound-force) is exerted on it. If a whale becomes entangled in lower breaking-strength gear, it should be able to free itself more easily. This gear is intended to decrease the duration and severity of the entanglement, thereby reducing harm.

Sinking groundlines

Groundlines are ropes connecting a string of pots or traps together. Traditional groundlines can float upwards, increasing the chances of a whale becoming entangled. Sinking groundlines sit on or closer to the seafloor, which can reduce the risk of an entanglement occurring.